Looking Ahead: SPA's Vision

As we look to the future, we have an ambitious plan building on our strengths and honoring our formidable legacy. In the coming years, we see opportunities to continue SPA's upward trajectory.

Since it was founded nearly a century ago, the School of Public Affairs has played an increasingly critical role in building and enhancing careers in public service while producing transformational research that drives progress in policy, politics, and public administration.

The school has enjoyed significant success in the past few years as reflected in increased enrollments, student and faculty success, greater external funding, ongoing strategic engagement, and expanded visibility in policy circles as well as the academic arena.

As we look to the future, we have an ambitious plan building on our strengths and honoring our formidable legacy. We will continue to produce 21st century challenge-focused research that informs citizens and government, as they work together to improve the world around them. In addition to being knowledgeable, engaged, and globally conscious citizens, our graduates will increasingly apply the complex problem solving, leadership, and research skills acquired during their time at SPA. Our research and initiatives will create an even deeper connection with thought leaders and decision makers. And our physical space will project a new focus on collaboration, encouraging faculty and students to partner together on research and projects.

In the coming years, we see opportunities to continue SPA's upward trajectory. We will continue to capitalize on what SPA does best - producing research that informs the public policy conversation while educating future leaders in politics, policy, and public administration. Strategic investments will further position our school, and university, for success in the years and decades to come.

bird statue on the American University campus